When shopping for shipping containers, you’ll encounter the term “one-trip” or “one-tripper.” These containers represent the closest thing to new you can buy in the container world—and they come with both premium quality and premium prices. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Exactly Is a One-Trip Container?
A one-trip container is manufactured overseas (typically in China) and shipped to North America loaded with goods. This single voyage is their “one trip.” After arrival, they’re sold as new containers.
Key characteristics:
- Made within the last year
- Only one ocean voyage of use
- Minimal wear and tear
- Fresh paint and clean interiors
- All seals and mechanisms in new condition
Why Are They Called “One-Trip”?
The name is straightforward but misleading to some. It doesn’t mean the container can only be used once—quite the opposite. A one-trip container has decades of useful life ahead. The “one trip” refers to its history, not its future.
Think of it like buying a demo car: technically used, but practically new with full life expectancy remaining.
One-Trip vs. Cargo Worthy: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the distinction helps you make the right purchase:
One-Trip Containers
Condition: Essentially new Age: Less than 1 year Appearance: Fresh paint, no dents, minimal scratches Price: Premium (highest tier) Best for: Long-term investments, visible locations, conversion projects
Cargo Worthy Containers
Condition: Good used condition Age: 8-15+ years typically Appearance: Surface rust, dents, worn paint Price: Moderate Best for: Functional storage, work sites, budget-conscious buyers
When Is a One-Trip Container Worth It?
The premium price makes sense in certain situations:
Conversion Projects
Building a container home, office, or workshop? A one-trip container provides:
- Cleaner starting point for modifications
- Better structural integrity for cutting
- No hidden rust or corrosion issues
- Longer lifespan for your investment
Visible Locations
If your container will be seen by customers, neighbours, or visitors:
- Professional appearance matters
- Easier to maintain good looks
- Better reflection of your business
Long-Term Storage
Planning to use the container for 20+ years?
- Maximum remaining lifespan
- Lowest risk of future issues
- Better long-term value proposition
Sensitive Contents
Storing items that require pristine conditions:
- No residual odours from previous cargo
- Clean floors with no contamination
- Intact seals for maximum weather protection
Looking for a one-trip container? We carry new one-trip containers and can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your project. Get availability and pricing.
When a Used Container Makes More Sense
One-trip containers aren’t always the best choice:
Temporary Needs
For short-term projects or storage needs, a cargo worthy or WWT container offers excellent value at lower cost.
Construction Sites
Work sites are rough on containers. Why pay premium prices for something that will get dented and scratched?
Tight Budgets
A well-inspected used container can provide excellent service at 30-50% less cost than one-trip.
Remote Locations
Containers in remote areas face harsh conditions regardless of their starting condition. Used containers often make more practical sense.
Inspecting a One-Trip Container
Even new containers should be inspected before purchase:
Exterior Check
- Fresh paint throughout
- No significant dents or damage
- Proper labelling and markings
- Clean, unrusted exterior
Interior Check
- Clean plywood flooring
- No moisture or condensation
- Fresh paint on walls
- Proper ventilation
Door Function
- Smooth operation
- Proper seal engagement
- Functional locking mechanisms
- Aligned hinges
Current One-Trip Pricing
One-trip container prices fluctuate based on:
- Global shipping demand - High demand raises prices
- Container manufacturing rates - Production affects supply
- Transportation costs - Distance from ports matters
- Currency exchange rates - Impacts manufacturing costs
In Saskatchewan, expect one-trip containers to cost 30-50% more than comparable cargo worthy containers.
Want an exact quote? Prices fluctuate—contact us for current pricing on one-trip and used containers.
Making Your Decision
Consider these questions:
- How long will you use the container?
- Will appearance matter at its location?
- What’s your budget flexibility?
- What will you store inside?
- Are you planning modifications?
For many buyers, a quality used container offers the best value. But when you need the best condition and longest remaining lifespan, one-trip containers deliver.
Find Your Container
At C-Can Sam, we offer both one-trip and quality used containers. We’ll help you understand the trade-offs and find the right option for your specific needs.
Get started: Contact us or call 1-844-473-2226 to discuss your options.
New or used—we’ve got the container for you.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you need a container for storage, construction, or a creative project, we're here to help you find the perfect solution.
